The Federal Government has graduated over 7,000 Forest Guards from seven frontline states following a three-month intensive training under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The programme, coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), is aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups.

The graduation ceremonies, held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara and Kebbi States, mark a coordinated Federal–State effort to strengthen internal security and deny criminal elements safe havens in forested and hard-to-reach areas. The trainees were equipped with advanced field, tactical and endurance skills, alongside environmental protection training.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a critical addition to Nigeria’s security architecture. He confirmed that deployment would begin immediately, with salaries and allowances commencing at once, stressing that the Forest Guards will serve as first responders, intelligence gatherers and community protectors.

The Forest Guards, who are indigenous to their local government areas, will work in collaboration with the DSS, National Park Service, Defence Headquarters and other security agencies. The Federal Government reaffirmed that the initiative will be expanded nationwide as part of sustained efforts to secure lives, territory and forest resources across the country.